Shows
Beyond The BeaconWays the Eucharist is transforming the lives of these pilgrimsWhen the 2026 National Eucharistic Pilgrimage (NEP) journeyed through the Diocese of Paterson earlier this week, three of the young pilgrims on the journey – known as “Perpetual Pilgrims” – joined the podcast. Paterson is one of 18 participating dioceses holding special Masses, processions, talks, and more centered around the Eucharist. Zach Dotson, Mary Carmen Zakrajsek, and Raymond Martinez II are guests with Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney. Also joining for a segment is Father Cesar Jaramillo, the local NEP coordinator for the Diocese of Paterson, and Father Casey Cole, O.F.M., a social media influencer who gave a reflection to students earlier in the d...
2026-06-1836 min
Beyond The BeaconBishop Kevin Sweeney shares opportunities to grow in faithLearn about some "opportunities" to grow in faith individually and through community in the Diocese of Paterson and beyond. Ways to get involved include the Corpus Christi Food Drive, Consecration to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, National Eucharistic Pilgrimage, and priesthood ordination.Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish also discuss Pope Leo's new encyclical on artificial intelligence, “Magnifica Humanitas,” and the upcoming U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops June plenary assembly in Orlando, Fla.Show Notes:Corpus Christi Food DriveInside the Vatican podcastMagnifica HumanitasU.S.C.C...
2026-06-0433 min
Beyond The BeaconMore than a melody: The unstoppable spirit of Tony MelendezTony Melendez, a renowned toe-picking Catholic guitarist born without arms, says let God use you, take you to places, and you be the instrument that God plays. Melendez's life was forever changed in 1987 when he played his guitar for Pope John Paul II in Los Angeles, and the Pope approached him afterward from the stage to kiss him in appreciation. Melendez says his phone hasn't stopped ringing since that moment, and he continues to perform 15-20 concerts a month. On this latest episode of Beyond The Beacon, Melendez recounts this story and more with the Diocese of P...
2026-05-2834 min
Beyond The BeaconWalking with a future saint? Lo Anne Mayer on her friendship with Fulton SheenWhat was it like to be friends with possible future saint Archbishop Fulton Sheen? For this episode, we hear from Lo Anne Mayer, formerly of Corpus Christi Parish in Chatham Township, N.J., of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Mayer struck up a friendship with the beloved, world-renowned Catholic radio and TV evangelist in 1974 after hearing him speak at Christ the King Church in the New Vernon neighborhood of Harding Township, N.J. The two would speak a couple of times a week over the phone until he died in 1979. Archbishop Sheen sought out he...
2026-05-1437 min
Beyond The BeaconThis special program equips parishioners to become better evangelistsOn this episode, we learn about the Certificate in Catholic Evangelization and Leadership (CCE) -- a unique program, taught over three years, that seeks to transform Catholics into effective evangelists and spiritual leaders, equipping them to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to their homes, parishes, and local communities. The certificate is offered by the Office of Evangelization of the Diocese of Paterson (St. Paul Inside the Walls), in collaboration with Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology Seton Hall University.Hosts:Co-hosting with Bishop Kevin Sweeney is Vicar for Evangelization Father Paul Manning o...
2026-04-3051 min
Beyond The BeaconJohn Fanta: Sports broadcaster, storyteller and man of faithWe talk sports and faith with John Fanta, a prominent national broadcaster at NBC Sports, who attends Mass with his wife and young son at Our Lady of the Magnificat Church in Kinnelon, N.J. He joins Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J.John went to Seton Hall University in South Orange, N.J., where he became deeply involved with the Pirate Sports Network, WSOU radio, and student journalism, and laid the foundation for his national broadcasting career. But his first break came when his first-grade t...
2026-04-1651 min
Beyond The BeaconThe best call of his life: How this former NBA referee rediscovered his faith and became a deaconDeacon Steve Javie is a retired NBA referee with 25 years of experience and is currently an analyst with ESPN. He was ordained a deacon in 2019, and he and his wife, Maryellen, live in Newtown, Pa., where he is assigned to St. Andrew Parish. Deacon Steve drove up to join Bishop Kevin Sweeney and co-host Jai Agnish of the Diocese of Paterson for a fun episode about all of this and more!Show Notes:From NBA ref to permanent deacon, Steve Javie’s keeping his whistleAn Evening With Jay WrightWelcome Home To He...
2026-03-2057 min
Beyond The BeaconA new religious community is inspiring students in PatersonWe welcome three religious sisters from the Religious Sisters of Mercy of Alma, Michigan, involved with the religious education program at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Paterson, N.J. We learn about their work with the Compostela catechetical program and how they came to be the newest religious community in the Diocese of Paterson. The guests are Sister Moira Debono, R.S.M., the community’s local superior, and Msgr. Geno Sylva, rector of St. John’s and diocesan vicar for special projects; Sister Mary Mia Menke, R.S.M.; and Sister Paul Miriam MacIn...
2026-03-0650 min
Beyond The BeaconPriest, beggar, hero: Inside the world of Father Al and the Sisters of MaryBiographer Kevin Wells discusses "one of the greatest stories in the Church today," the life and work of "Father Al" and the Sisters of Mary. He shares insights from his book, "Priest and Beggar: The Heroic Life of Venerable Aloysius Schwartz." Hosted by the Diocese of Paterson's Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish.Venerable Aloysius Philip Schwartz was a devoted Catholic priest known for his unwavering commitment to serving the poor. He founded the Sisters of Mary congregation and the World Villages for Children, focusing on providing education, shelter, and care for destitute children...
2026-02-0549 min
Beyond The BeaconTwo sisters and a lifetime of social justice advocacy“No Christian can regard the poor simply as a societal problem; they are part of our ‘family.’ They are ‘one of us.’ Nor can our relationship to the poor be reduced to merely another ecclesial activity or function.” - From Pope Leo XIV’s first apostolic exhortation “Dilexi Te.”Social justice advocacy has long been a way of life for the two religious sisters who join the Diocese of Paterson's Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for the latest episode of Beyond The Beacon. Following the inspiration of their religious order's charism and the example of...
2025-12-1850 min
Beyond The BeaconThe future is now: Inspiring interviews from our diocesan youth conferenceJust back from the fall meeting of the United States' bishops, Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney shares his perspective on participating in the issuance of a rare “special message” regarding the bishops' concern for the evolving situation affecting immigrants in the United States.For the second half of the episode, we go remote to the 2025 Diocese of Paterson Youth Conference, "Anchored in Hope," where Bishop Sweeney interviewed participants. Guests:Jessica Martinez - Christ is Alive Youth Ministry, Our Lady of Fatima & St Nicholas in Passaic, N.J.Juan-Pablo Martinez - Christ is Alive Youth Ministry, Our L...
2025-11-1737 min
Beyond The BeaconLiving out your Catholic faith: Perspectives from 3 dedicated KnightsJoin us for an inspired conversation as we delve into the heart of the Knights of Columbus, the world's largest Catholic fraternal organization, through the lens of three dedicated Knights. They share their perspectives and experiences of actively living out their Catholic faith through service, fraternity, and charity.Hosted by Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish of the Diocese of Paterson. Guests:Jim Sweeney, State Deputy of the New Jersey State Council Knights of Columbus, and a member of and past Grand Knight of the Father Joseph A. Cassidy Council 6100 in...
2025-11-0547 min
Beyond The BeaconHow your gift powers hope across the three counties of the dioceseHow can a food pantry in one of the most impoverished cities in New Jersey feed 22,000 people each month? What does it take to empower the staff and volunteers of a drug and alcohol treatment center that helps hundreds of people in recovery every day? We answer these questions and more.Tim Potter and Scott Milliken are the guests on this episode, which explores how the annual Diocesan Ministries Appeal is having a significant impact on many lives across the three counties of the Diocese of Paterson. Potter is chief development officer for the Diocese o...
2025-10-2340 min
Beyond The BeaconYouth ministry's impact: How it forms a strong Catholic faithIs youth ministry just pizza and retreats? Think again. This week, we dive deep into the vital role Catholic youth ministry plays in forming lifelong faith. Featuring insightful interviews with seasoned youth ministers, we explore the powerful impact of youth ministry—not just on attendance, but on how it actively develops and strengthens a strong, authentic Catholic identity in young people. Hear some strategies for connecting with teens and navigating modern challenges. If you want to know what works in building the Church's future, this episode is a must-listen.Joining Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney, the leader of th...
2025-10-1044 minBeyond The BeaconHow to use social media as a positive Catholic influence in the world todayWith the Catholic Church more mainstream in today’s culture, Catholic influencers are on the rise. So much so that the Vatican recently celebrated the Jubilee of Digital Missionaries and Catholic Influencers. We welcome guests Father Cesar Jaramillo and Salesian Sister Guerline Joseph, who know a thing or two about making connections on social media. They discuss with Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney and Cecile Pagliarulo -- who manages the social media accounts for the Diocese of Paterson -- how they use their digital presence as a positive influence in the world today.To begin the epi...
2025-09-1257 minBeyond The BeaconWhat it's like to love and accompany homeless, pregnant women"I just need a place to sleep," said a pregnant woman living in her car and washing up for work in a public bathroom. Another woman, a pregnant college student abandoned by her family, insisted on giving birth to her child. These are real-life stories of women in crisis pregnancy situations who received the help they needed from an organization called Birth Haven. Tina Magarino, the executive director of the non-profit, is a guest on this week's episode, along with Alyssa Renovales, the Respect Life coordinator for the Diocese of Paterson. Birth Haven is an independent, nonsectarian, n...
2025-08-1339 minBeyond The BeaconBishop Kevin shares how to deepen your spiritual life with a jubilee pilgrimage and more!Does a bishop get time off in the summer? Find out on this week's episode, when Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney and Jai Agnish catch up for a mid-summer episode. They discuss a wide array of current events and topics, including what's happening in Rome for the Jubilee Year of Hope, and the excitement around local pilgrimages and events in the Diocese of Paterson. Show Notes: https://rcdop.org/jubilee-2025-rcdopThanks for joining us! Please like and subscribe!Email questions and topic ideas to Bishop Kevin at beyond@patersondiocese.org.P...
2025-07-3133 minBeyond The BeaconGet to know our new Respect Life CoordinatorLearn how end-of-life hospital care led Alyssa Renovales to embark on her role as the new Respect Life Coordinator for the Diocese of Paterson. She also discusses graces she has experienced as a result of her involvement with the Corazón Puro ministry. Eniola Honsberger, director of the Office of Family Life, also joins Bishop Kevin Sweeney and guest co-host Brian Honsberger for this lively episode recorded at our St. Paul Inside the Walls Evangelization Center. Brian Honsberger is the executive director of Evangelization and director of Mission and Technology Integration for the diocese. He also co-hosts the Paul S...
2025-07-1036 minBeyond The BeaconHow a men's retreat could result in a lifelong breakthroughImagine if a spiritual retreat could have a life-changing impact on your life! For the guests of this episode, that is exactly what happened. Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney and Jai Agnish talk with Dick Freiberger and Frank Farrell, members of the Called to Courage men’s retreat group; and Father Dan Murphy, a retired priest of the Diocese of Paterson. The annual Called to Courage retreat is where men listen and speak from the heart, and develop lasting friendships and support systems. Show Notes:https://beaconnj.org/men-seek-living-catholic-holy-lives-at-called-to-courage-retreatEmail for information about Called to Courage.
2025-06-0538 min
Real Life Mortgage SolutionsMPP info for Brokers and Clients Featuring Bart PatersonLen Lane sits down with Bart Paterson, Business Development Manager at Manulife, to explore the often-overlooked importance of life and disability insurance in the mortgage process. While many clients are familiar with default and title insurance that protect the lender and the property, Len and Bart emphasize that life and disability insurance protect the client by insuring their health, income, and long-term investment. Bart explains Manulife’s Mortgage Protection Plan (MPP), a flexible, portable insurance solution with fixed premiums that can provide peace of mind for homeowners facing unexpected life events, especially new homeowners. He...
2025-05-2727 minBeyond The BeaconHabemus Papam: Bishop Kevin discusses our new Pope: Leo XIVBishop Kevin Sweeney shares his reaction to Pope Leo XIV's historic election. Our local church of Paterson rejoices with the Church throughout the world in the election of Cardinal Robert Prevost as the Successor to the blessed Apostle Peter. Jai Agnish co-hosts.Show Notes:https://beaconnj.org/statement-of-bishop-kevin-j-sweeney-bishop-of-paterson-on-the-election-of-his-holiness-pope-leo-xiv-may-8-2025Thanks for joining us! Please like and subscribe!Email questions and topic ideas to Bishop Kevin at beyond@patersondiocese.org.Produced by Jai Agnish, Bishop Kevin Sweeney, and Cecile Pagliarulo for the Diocese of Paterson. Engineered by Cecile Pagliarulo and Jai...
2025-05-0909 minBeyond The BeaconWe reflect on Pope Francis and look to the conclave This special episode reflects on Pope Francis's legacy and considers what the future might bring. Joining Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney and Jai Agnish is Msgr. Geno Sylva, to share joyful memories of his interactions with the Holy Father while working at the Vatican for many years. Msgr. Geno is the rector of the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist in Paterson, N.J. He is also vicar for Special Projects and serves as a Vatican appointee to the Dicastery for Evangelization. Also appearing on this week's episode is Msgr. Raymond Kupke, pastor of St. Anthony in Hawthorne, adjunct professor o...
2025-04-3037 minBeyond The BeaconOpportunities for God's grace in the season of LentAs we look to Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent, Bishop Kevin Sweeney offers practical advice about the Lenten practices of fasting, almsgiving, and prayer. Guest Father Jared Brogan joins Bishop Kevin and Jai Agnish to help illuminate the meaning and purpose of these traditions. Lent is a 40-day season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving that begins on Ash Wednesday and ends at sundown on Holy Thursday. It's a period of preparation to celebrate the Lord's Resurrection at Easter. Father Jared is the director of the Office of Worship for the Diocese of Paterson as well as the...
2025-02-2843 minBeyond The BeaconHow three people responded to their call to religious lifeA religious sister and two brothers engage in a lively interview with Bishop Kevin Sweeney about how they discerned God's call to consecrated religious life. Sister of Christian Charity Chiara Marie Stimpfle, Franciscan Father John Aherne, and Franciscan Father of the Renewal Isaac Spinharney also share insights into prayer, retreats, and living in community. Bishop Kevin also reflects on the state of immigration enforcement in America and the recent letter from Pope Francis to the United States bishops expressing concern at mass deportations. "Are we treating each and every person like Jesus [and] as our sister and brother?" the b...
2025-02-1444 minBeyond The BeaconHow this close-knit Catholic school community thrives nowFor this remote episode, Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish visited All Saints Academy, a preschool through eighth-grade Catholic school of the Diocese of Paterson in Parsippany, N.J. The episode was recorded at St. Ann Church, where classes were being held temporarily. Joining them for interviews were Principal Leanne Gonzalez, Media Specialist Laura Carroll, and students Giulliana Lalo, Maggie Van Hoven, Matthew Sinche, and Grace Kwiatkowski. They discuss their close-knit school community, Catholic Schools Week, and learning and promoting "digital citizenship." After recording the episode, Bishop Kevin and Jai participated in a Q&A with students in the...
2025-01-2332 minBeyond The BeaconMarch For Life: The powerful movement continues after 52 yearsOn Jan. 24, 2025, the 52nd annual National March for Life will take place in Washington, D.C., bringing together pro-life advocates to be a voice for the voiceless. Two frequent attendees of the March, Julie McGurn, a parishioner of St. Vincent Martyr Church in Madison and coordinator of its Respect Life Ministry, and Russell Petrocelli, principal of DePaul Catholic High School in Wayne and state treasurer of the N.J. Knights of Columbus, discuss their experiences in the movement. Along with Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Cecile Pagliarulo, the guests also discuss how the faithful can bring a culture...
2025-01-0928 minBeyond The BeaconHow to get involved in the Jubilee of 2025Pope Francis invites everyone to participate in the grace-filled Jubilee “Year of Hope,” which opens in Rome on Dec. 24, 2024, and in every diocese on Dec. 29, Feast of the Holy Family. Bishop Kevin Sweeney welcomes Sister Theresa Lee, F.M.A., and Brian Honsberger to the show to discuss the Diocesan-wide Jubilee events and liturgies, pilgrimages, education, and catechesis. Sister Theresa is the Chancellor and Diocesan Delegate for Religious, and Brian is the Executive Director of the Office of Evangelization and Diocesan Director for Mission and Technology Integration.Learn more here: https://rcdop.org/jubilee-2025-rcdop.Than...
2024-12-2044 minBeyond The BeaconHow can the Church best involve young people in their faith communities?How can the Church best involve young people in their faith communities? This week, several students who attend DePaul Catholic High School in Wayne tackle this question with Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Cecile Pagliarulo. They also discuss how campus ministry has led them to build closer relationships with God. Led by the school’s campus minister, Annamaria Zaccardi, the students participate in service projects to help those most in need and assist with Masses and prayer services. They also participate in youth conferences and retreats. Thanks for joining us! Please like and subscribe!Email questions and...
2024-12-1235 minBeyond The BeaconReworking the way we share the stories of our faithHappy Thanksgiving from Bishop Kevin Sweeney, Jai Agnish, Cecile Pagliarulo, and all of us in the Communications Office of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J.! On this week's episode, Bishop Kevin and Jai discuss the difficult decision to close the print edition of The Beacon. It was recently announced The Diocese of Paterson would cease printing its beloved newspaper at the end of the year, concluding a 58-year publication run at the helm of four different bishops. The Beacon will live on in its new form: Beaconnj.org, where the important stories of our faith community will continue to...
2024-11-2736 minBeyond The BeaconOn the ground, how the synod is breathing new life into the Catholic ChurchWhat does the Synod on Synodality mean for the future of the Catholic Church, and will anything change in the Diocese of Paterson? Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish welcome Father Paul Manning and Maria Moncaleano back to Beyond The Beacon to discuss all this and more. Father Paul is the vicar for evangelization for the diocese, and Maria is the director of the diocese's Office of Hispanic Ministry. Together, they are the co-chairs of the Diocesan Synod Committee and, with Bishop Kevin, have led the Church of Paterson through the Synod on Synodality experience. SHOW NOTES
2024-11-1444 minBeyond The BeaconHow one university empowers and inspires Latin American studentsLearn how one university empowers and inspires its Latino student population with scholarships, career connections, and community support. Joining Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish this week is Lori Tarke, executive director of the Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute at Seton Hall University. Two scholar recipients from the institute – Christian Almestica and Daniela Miranda Calle – also share perspectives on embracing their Latin American heritage and becoming servant leaders in an ever-changing global society.SHOW NOTEShttps://www.shu.edu/latino-institutehttps://dopappeal.org/about.htmlhttps://www.pushkin.fm/podcasts/revisionist-historyThanks for...
2024-10-3135 minBeyond The BeaconLearn how giving impacts our communities in a special wayThis remote episode was recorded at the temporary location of The Father English Food Pantry in the heart of Paterson near St. Joseph's University Medical Center. Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish welcome Carlos Roldan and Tim Potter to the show. Carlos is the long-time founder and director of the food pantry going back to 1993. Tim has been the chief fundraising superhero for the diocese for the last 31 years. His formal title is Chief Development Officer, and he has, yet again, spearheaded the launch of our Diocesan Ministries Appeal – now underway. SHOW NOTEShttps://www.ccpaterson.or...
2024-10-1742 minBeyond The BeaconHow to make a difference now as a Catholic in the public squareWho should I vote for this November? Find out what Bishop Kevin Sweeney has to say on the matter in the latest episode of Beyond The Beacon. You may or may not like the answer. We also welcome Jim King, the executive director of the New Jersey Catholic Conference (NJCC), back to the show. The NJCC represents the Catholic bishops of New Jersey on matters of public policy. Jim and his staff monitor what’s happening at the statehouse and ensure our Catholic community has a voice in public policy issues.SHOW NOTEShttps://njcatholic.org/ov...
2024-10-0351 minBeyond The BeaconA special live audience interview with Bishop Kevin and JesuiticalWe hosted a unique media event with Bishop Kevin Sweeney and America Media's Jesuitical on Sept. 11. The cohosts of the popular podcast -- Ashley McKinless and Zac Davis -- interviewed Bishop Kevin in front of a live audience at our St. Paul Inside the Walls evangelization center in Madison, N.J. The interview covered a wide array of important topics and drew a ton of laughs. The "official" Jesuitical episode with Bishop Kevin’s interview aired on Sept. 20 and is available wherever you listen to podcasts. The full interview is also contained here for episode 69 of Beyond The Beacon. Th...
2024-09-2645 minBeyond The BeaconThe unique role of deacons in our faith life"Go forth, the Mass is ended!" Deacons get the last word at Mass, and they have a unique role in the faith life of the Catholic Church. You might hear them proclaiming the gospel or preaching the homily. Deacons assist with Communion and can perform baptisms and witness marriages. Deacon Bill Ruane and Deacon Peter Cistaro join Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish for episode 68 of Beyond The Beacon. Deacon Bill recently took over the role of director of the Permanent Diaconate for the Diocese of Paterson from Deacon Peter. They share insights into the life of...
2024-09-1947 minBeyond The BeaconJoin: The March For Life is coming to NJAny Catholic deeply involved in the pro-life movement has likely attended a March for Life in Washington, D.C. during its 50-year history. For those in New Jersey, the movement is coming to the Garden State on Sept. 26 in Trenton for the first time. Jeanne Mancini, president of the March for Life Education and Defense Fund, is the guest of Beyond The Beacon episode 67. She discusses her commitment to the pro-life movement and its recent developments due to the Dobbs decision, with Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish. Learn how Catholics can continue to advocate for the...
2024-09-0543 minBeyond The BeaconCatholic higher education in the mainstream secular worldDr. Peter Kilpatrick, the president of The Catholic University of America, joins Bishop Kevin Sweeney to discuss the challenges of leading a Catholic university in an increasingly secularized culture. Born a Methodist, he also talks about his faith journey, which led him to become Catholic after becoming a father. Kilpatrick discusses his diverse career path which wound through Illinois Institute of Technology and the University of Notre Dame. He holds or shares 12 patents in chemical engineering and said the awe-inspiring scientific discoveries of the last 50 to 100 years lead us to God. Also joining is guest co-host Father...
2024-08-3044 minBeyond The BeaconPriest returns to Cuba for a special mission yearFather Dailon Lisabet left Cuba for the United States when he was 19 years old and found his way to New Jersey where he was ordained a priest of the diocese in 2019. In many ways, the seeds of his priestly calling began as a teenager in Cuba where he established a mission to impoverished children through his church and led many youths to be baptized. Now Father Dailon is set to return to his home country as a mission priest for a year. Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish discuss all this and more with Father Dailon on episode 64 of...
2024-08-1534 minBeyond The BeaconExploring the diocesan archives for the first timeBishop Kevin Sweeney tours the diocesan archives for the first time in a special simulpodcast episode of Beyond The Beacon and Coffee with Kupke. With the help of historian, archivist, and pastor Msgr. Ray Kupke, the bishop unearths some of the oldest treasures of the diocese. These include vintage mitres worn by Bishop James Navagh, Bishop Thomas Aloysius Boland’s desk calendar from 1948, the deed to St. Vincent Martyr parish in Madison on vellum from the original owners of the property from 1863, a historic confirmation prayer book in Latin, and more! Watch this episode on YouTube!
2024-08-0951 minBeyond The BeaconThe National Eucharistic Congress has concluded. Now what?On Beyond The Beacon episode 62, meet two couples, who recently returned from the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis, Ind. Dr. Tobi and Anne Ippolito, who are parents of three grown children, are parishioners of Holy Family Church in Florham Park. Tobi is currently a diaconate candidate, Anne is a master’s of theology student and they have classes together at Seton Hall University. Also joining are Deacon Eric and Debby Kispert, parishioners of Notre Dame of Mount Carmel Church in the Cedar Knolls neighborhood of Hanover Township. They have two grown sons, a daughter-in-law, and their first gr...
2024-08-0148 minBeyond The BeaconWhat are the old and new ways Franciscans pass on the faith?Each of our guests is a priest. One is a doctor and educator, another a future immigration lawyer, and the other has a heart for social justice at the border, on death row, on the streets, and in his suburban backyard. They are Father Chris VanHaight, O.F.M., Father Matthew Pravetz, O.F.M., and Father Emmet Murphy, O.F.M. These Franciscan friars have traveled diverse paths and currently live and work in the Diocese of Paterson. They join Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish for episode 61 of Beyond The Beacon to discuss how they...
2024-07-1843 minBeyond The BeaconFuture priests discover their unique call at Quo Vadis retreatWhere are you going? In Latin, it translates to “Quo Vadis” and in Beyond The Beacon episode 60 learn what that means as we travel again on location to Shiloh Bible Camp in West Milford, N.J. for the 2024 Quo Vadis discernment retreat. Bishop Kevin Sweeney interviews six young men on the retreat from several parishes in the diocese: Rory Lago, Assumption Parish in Morristown; Juan Real and Jacob Gonzalez, both from Our Lady of Fatima and St. Nicholas Parish in Passaic; Stephen Howell, St. Lawrence Parish in Chester; Gabriel Nelson, Sacred Heart Parish in Rockaway and Za...
2024-07-0930 minBeyond The BeaconAddiction stole his big league career but sobriety gave him a new lifeFormer Major League Baseball pitcher and Paterson native Michael Jackson shares his remarkable story of making the big leagues, overcoming addiction, and going on to assist others as a counselor. Also joining Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish for this important conversation about healing and recovery is Angela Nikolovski, executive director of Straight and Narrow of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Thanks for joining us! Please like and subscribe!Email questions and topic ideas for Bishop Kevin to beyond@patersondiocese.org.SHOW NOTES: Straight and Narrow Read Michael Ja...
2024-06-2048 minBeyond The Beacon58: 'Hollywood priest' ministers to the stars and makes filmsPaulist Father Tom Gibbons, a New Jersey native, joins Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney and Jai Agnish to discuss ministering in Hollywood while producing and directing films of his own with Paulist Productions. His new documentary "Hollywood Priest: The Story of Fr. 'Bud' Kieser" is an entertaining, provocative, and nostalgic chronicle of a visionary who recognized early on the potential of television and film to shape public consciousness. In the documentary, a star-studded cast of actors and writers describe working with Father Kieser and the importance of TV shows and films like "Insight" and "Romero." Father Kieser's work was revolutionary i...
2024-06-1346 minBeyond The Beacon57: A lifetime of saving babies and caring for mothersOn Beyond the Beacon episode 57, co-founder of Good Counsel Homes Christopher Bell speaks about the pro-life efforts of he and his wife Joan Andrews Bell for nearly 40 years. Joan is a legendary advocate for life, recently sentenced to 27 months in prison for her involvement in a “rescue” at a Washington, D.C. abortion clinic. Also in the conversation with Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Cecile Pagliarulo, Bell discusses Lumina, a post-abortion healing ministry, the state of the pro-life movement, and the upcoming N.J. March for Life this fall. Thanks for joining us! Please like and subscribe!E...
2024-06-0641 minBeyond The Beacon56: Vibrant college for religious sisters transforms the world“Teach a sister, touch the world!” This is the motto of Assumption College for Sisters, an accredited college sponsored by the Sisters of Christian Charity (SCC), which educates religious sisters called to consecrated life from the Paterson Diocese and around the world. On episode 56, Beyond The Beacon hits the road again, recording on location on the Morris Catholic High School campus in Denville, where this one-of-a-kind college is located. Two international students, Sister Violete Lemla, SST, a third-year student from Cameroon, and Sister Theresa Lan Nguyen, MRP, a second-year student from Vietnam, share their experiences at the colleg...
2024-05-3147 minBeyond The Beacon55: Military chaplains explain the special significance of Memorial DayTwo priests join Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish to discuss what life is like as chaplains for the United States Armed Forces. Bishop Kevin also offers a special Memorial Day blessing.Guests Father Michael Parisi and Father Matt Pawlikowski have over 50 years of combined military service. Father Parisi was commissioned in the Navy Chaplain Corps in 1988 where he served in various capacities, including his last assignment with the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in Connecticut. He is now pastor of St. Catherine Parish in Mountain Lakes, N.J., and is one of the two vicars general...
2024-05-2547 minBeyond The Beacon55: Two military chaplains on the significance of Memorial DayTwo priests join Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish to discuss what life is like as chaplains for the United States Armed Forces. Bishop Kevin also offers a special Memorial Day blessing. Guests Father Michael Parisi and Father Matt Pawlikowski have over 50 years of combined military service. Father Parisi was commissioned in the Navy Chaplain Corps in 1988 where he served in various capacities, including his last assignment with the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in Connecticut. He is now pastor of St. Catherine Parish in Mountain Lakes, N.J., and is one of the two vicars general...
2024-05-2147 minBeyond The Beacon54: How students connect faith and technology in high schoolSeven students from Pope John XXIII Regional High School in Sparta discuss producing their podcast, technology and the impact of artificial intelligence, leading spiritual retreats, and their student-led Bible study. Accompanied by Father John Calabro, chaplain and teacher at Pope John, and Brian Carlson, faculty adviser and chair of the business department, the nine guests joined Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish, director of communications for the Paterson Diocese, for a fun conversation about these topics and more. Thanks for joining us! Please like and subscribe!Email questions and topic ideas for Bishop...
2024-05-1643 minBeyond The Beacon53: Miracles in Lourdes: love and healing to the sickWhile every Catholic pilgrimage site offers a journey of spiritual wonder, the mission of a Lourdes pilgrimage is specific: bringing love and healing to the sick.On Beyond the Beacon episode 53, Bishop Kevin Sweeney discusses with Jai Agnish, diocesan communications director, his recent pilgrimage to Lourdes, France with the Order of Malta. In 1858, the Blessed Mother appeared on 18 occasions to Bernadette Soubirous, a very poor, 14-year-old girl. Each May, Knights, Dames, Auxiliary and volunteers from the Order of Malta travel to Lourdes, France as pilgrims, bringing with them sick and disabled from around the world. The Order...
2024-05-0940 minBeyond The Beacon52: The Catholic annulment: when love isn't happily ever afterSometimes, when a man and a woman enter a marriage with the best of intentions, it may still end badly. Thankfully, the Catholic Church has a process to determine if a marriage that ended badly may be declared invalid. The process is called an annulment. On Beyond the Beacon’s 52nd episode, Father Marc Mancini, judicial vicar of the Paterson Diocese, joins Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish to talk about the annulment process and share information for those Catholics wanting to know more about it. In addition to his work in the...
2024-05-0244 minBeyond The Beacon51: Bishop Kevin responds to new email and social media commentsWhat is the right age for confirmation? Why was my priest assigned to a different parish? Should parish pastoral councils be mandatory? Is it OK to wash the feet of people in jail? Bishop Kevin Sweeney responds to these questions, critiques, and more in an episode dedicated entirely to feedback from our viewers, listeners, and social media community. Jai Agnish and Cecile Pagliarulo take turns putting these questions and comments to the bishop and add their own. Bishop Kevin responds to:Criticism for washing the feet of inmates for Holy ThursdayAdministering confirmation at middle school age o...
2024-04-1851 minBeyond The Beacon50: The beautiful gift of faith-filled friendshipsWhat role does faith play when building friendships? This week on Beyond the Beacon’s 50th episode, a group of students, along with Colette Geraghty, campus minister, from Villa Walsh Academy (VWA) in Morristown, join Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney and Cecile Pagliarulo to discuss how faith can influence our choice in friends. The students, a mix of sophomores and seniors from VWA, served by the Religious Teachers Filippini, also discuss the recent high school synod listening session held last month with our diocesan high schools. Colette shares her experiences in mission work and serving the Chur...
2024-04-1252 minBeyond The Beacon49: Now we journey with Jesus during Holy WeekThe Easter Season is an opportunity to renew our baptismal promises and recommit ourselves to Christ. For episode 49 of Beyond The Beacon, Bishop Kevin Sweeney reflects on the significance of Holy Week. Learn what it's like to experience Holy Week from the perspective of a bishop. As a bonus, discover what Bishop Kevin's favorite Holy Week Mass or service is. Thanks for joining us! Please like and subscribe!Email questions and topic ideas for Bishop Kevin: beyond@patersondiocese.org.SHOW NOTESPalm Sunday Mass with Bishop Kevin Sweeney livestream archiveChrism Mass with...
2024-03-2734 minBeyond The Beacon48: Sisterhood ministry brings love and hope to women after miscarriageWhat does “I am 1 in 4” mean? There’s a population of women who know exactly what this means firsthand. It means they lost a child through miscarriage. On Episode 48 of Beyond the Beacon, Jennifer Nelson joins Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney and Cecile Pagliarulo to discuss the Sisterhood of the Traveling Relics of St. Gianna, a prayer card ministry bonded by St. Gianna Beretta Molla. The “Sisterhood” is an international group of mothers of children on earth and in heaven that includes married women facing infertility and single women with hearts that long to serve others. Jennifer i...
2024-03-2143 minBeyond The Beacon47: A beautiful faith breakthrough for a teen and his dadWhat's the secret to passing on the faith? A father and teenage son explore the nuances of this question and more with Bishop Kevin Sweeney and co-host Jai Agnish for episode 47 of Beyond The Beacon. Dennis Dalelio and his oldest son, Eli, -- close friends of Agnish's -- strive to live a life of faith, hope, and love in Vernon, N.J., where they live and are active in catechesis at Our Lady of Fatima. Eli is a 17-year-old senior at Sussex County Technical School. He was confirmed by Bishop Kevin two years ago when he took the confirmation...
2024-03-1443 minBeyond The Beacon46: How church history inspires our faith nowHow can history inspire our faith? Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish visit Our Lady of the Magnificat in Kinnelon, N.J., for a remote podcast episode. On display in the church narthex is a giant museum-quality photo exhibition of the Shroud of Turin. Tune in to the video version of this episode for the full impact! This week's guest, Father Steven Shadwell, elaborates on how this unique historical experience came to life at his parish. In addition to three life-size photographs of the actual Shroud, the exhibit includes over 40 storyboards depicting various aspects of the history of the...
2024-03-0741 min
Woof You! Podcast#13: Barking Up The Right Tree with Julia Hawkins and Barbara PatersonJulia Hawkins and Barbara Paterson are the brains and beauty behind the Barking Up the Right Tree Festival 2024Dr. Barbara Paterson is a professional dog trainer and specializes in dog sports foundations and reactivity. She is based in Namibia.Julia Hawkins is a dog trainer and behaviourist based in Cheshire in the UK. Julia has also been a guest on this podcast a couple of times. Having known her for a few years now, it did not surprise me in the slightest when she shared with me her and...
2024-03-0154 minBeyond The Beacon45: New synod listening sessions welcome everyone to the conversation!How do you have a "spiritual conversation?" Father Paul Manning and Maria Moncaleano join Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish to discuss the interim phase of the Synod on Synodality and new listening sessions. All are welcome to listening sessions hosted by the Diocese of Paterson in English or Spanish on Wednesday, March 13, at Reverend Brown Memorial School in Sparta, from 7 to 9 p.m.; Monday, March 18, at Pope John Paul II Pastoral Center in Clifton, from 7 to 9 p.m.; and Saturday, March 23, at St. Paul Inside the Walls in Madison, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Learn more and...
2024-02-2840 minBeyond The Beacon44: Confession. What's the big deal? Do I really need to go?Lent -- and any time, really -- is an opportunity for us to consider the sacrament of reconciliation. Not only does penance free us from our sins, but it also challenges us to have the same kind of compassion and forgiveness for those who sin against us. All are invited to celebrate the gift of forgiveness in the sacrament of reconciliation (confession) at any church in the Diocese of Paterson on Mondays during Lent from 7 to 8:30 p.m. This opportunity for confession is available as part of our Welcome Home to Healing initiative. For this e...
2024-02-2349 minBeyond The Beacon43: Love beyond words. What a Christian marriage really looks likeHave you ever asked: How can I be a better husband? How can I be a better wife? We attempt to answer those questions and more. This week's guests are Brian and Eniola (Eni) Honsberger, a loving Catholic couple celebrating 15 years of marriage in April. In honor of the season of love (Valentine's Day, National Marriage Week, World Marriage Day), they join Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish for episode 43 of Beyond The Beacon for an honest discussion about their marriage and more. Eni and Brian also give insights into how the diocese promotes love and marriage...
2024-02-1550 minBeyond The Beacon42: The Eucharist's impact on the spiritual life of young adultsWe welcome back Cecile Pagliarulo to discuss the Eucharist's impact on the spiritual life of young adults. Bishop Kevin Sweeney also announces a video contest for two trips to the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis this summer. Cecile, who manages social media for the Diocese of Paterson, reveals the contest rules while reflecting on her experience of Eucharistic adoration and her role as a catechist at St. Anthony Church in Passaic. They also discuss many ways the diocese is taking part in the National Eucharistic Revival locally, including offering Eucharistic Adoration nights. Bishop Kevin discusses the uniqueness of Valentine’s...
2024-02-0846 minBeyond The Beacon41: Jerry Jenkins had wild success in the '90s. Now it's happening again with his son & The ChosenFeatured on this episode is 21-time bestselling author Jerry B. Jenkins who has written over 200 books, including his latest entitled, "The Chosen: And I Will Give You Rest." It's the third book in a series based on the record-breaking television series created by his son Dallas Jenkins. Jerry opens up about his son's success with The Chosen and why he thinks the series is so popular. Jerry also discusses the last time "lightning struck" the family with the wild success of the Left Behind series, which he co-authored with Tim LaHaye between 1995 and 2007. He and the bishop reflect on...
2024-02-0146 minBeyond The Beacon40: A vocation discernment retreat can offer the way forwardHave you ever asked yourself, "What does God want me to do with my life?" The vocations office of the Diocese of Paterson is hosting a discernment retreat during the first weekend of March to help young men get a step closer to answering that question. For this episode, a young priest and a seminarian join Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish to discuss the discernment process and the value of spiritual retreats. John Peter Zappe is in his final year of minor seminary undergraduate studies at The College Seminary of the Immaculate Conception at...
2024-01-2651 minBeyond The Beacon39: Learning how to navigate social media with two students...and a teacherWhile Facebook was created in 2004 by a college student, fast forward 20 years later, several other social media apps reign superior for today’s youth.Two students and a teacher join Bishop Kevin Sweeney and guest co-host Cecile Pagliarulo to discuss social media. Caitlin Farley, a high school senior, and Emily Dymkowski, a high school junior, attend Mary Help of Christians Academy in North Haledon. They share their insights into the world of social media and the youth. Also joining the conversation is Salesian Sister Christina Chong, a Theology teacher who also handles marketing and communications at the sc...
2024-01-1943 minBeyond The Beacon38: Love your animals and your neighbors, tooIs Bishop Kevin a cat person or a dog person? Tune in to find out!Bishop Kevin Sweeney invites his Paterson neighbor, John DeCando, onto the show for a fun Beyond The Beacon episode about animals. Together with co-host Jai Agnish, they discuss their four-legged friends, and John recounts some amusing and heroic animal rescue stories from 50 years of working for the city of Paterson. John is a local legend known for saving – not just cats and dogs – but even sheep and a cow running around on Route 80 once. He’s told these wild tales on countless televi...
2024-01-1141 minBeyond The Beacon37: Some great reasons to go to the National Eucharistic CongressOn the first Beyond The Beacon episode of the new year, Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish are joined by Father Alex Nevitt -- a pilot and a French chef -- to discuss the upcoming pilgrimage to the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis in July. Father Alex is coordinating our Diocesan participation in this historic event. We discussed the importance of the pilgrimage and had fun getting to know Father Alex, a relatively new priest who is a parochial vicar serving at Notre Dame of Mt. Carmel in the Cedar Knolls neighborhood of Hanover Township. He's also one of...
2024-01-0445 minBeyond The Beacon36: How music ministers draw us closer to the LordWhat is Bishop Kevin Sweeney's favorite Christmas carol? Tune in to find out! This week, for episode 36 of Beyond The Beacon (a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, New Jersey), Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish are joined by two gifted music ministers for a discussion about music's impact on our faith. Preston Dibble is our long-time Director of Music for the diocese. He also works full-time at Our Lady of Sorrows in South Orange in our neighboring Archdiocese of Newark. As he likes to say, he’s a dual citizen of Paterson and Newark. The same ca...
2023-12-2147 minBeyond The Beacon35: Hispanic Catholics and the joy in our faithBishop Kevin Sweeney is joined by guest co-host Brian Honsberger for episode 35 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. They explore the richness of the Hispanic Catholic experience with Maria Moncaleano, the director of the Office of Hispanic Ministry for the diocese. Honsberger is the executive director of the Office of Evangelization at St. Paul Inside The Walls. He is also co-host of The Paul Street Journal podcast. Thanks for listening! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.o...
2023-12-1347 minBeyond The Beacon34: Powerhouse fundraiser and Catholic school principal join the bishopJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 34 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Joining them this week for a passionate discussion about Catholic school education are Prudence Pigott and Lelia Pappas. Pigott is a powerhouse fundraiser for Catholic schools as president of Tri-County Scholarship Fund. Pappas is a dedicated Catholic school principal whose work in the field goes back years. She serves at Academy of St. James of the Marches in Totowa, N.J. Thanks for listening! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune i...
2023-11-3041 minBeyond The Beacon33: Bishop Kevin Sweeney talks gratitude, meeting with the U.S. bishops, NCYC, moreJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 33 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Bishop Sweeney gives a Thanksgiving message and reflects on what he is grateful for. In a wide-ranging interview, he discusses his experience at the November meeting of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, attending the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC), and what he's been up to in the diocese. Thanks for listening! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.o...
2023-11-2245 minBeyond The Beacon32: Seminarian, priest, and bishop talk vocationsJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 32 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Seminarian Carlos Vargas and Father Charlie Lana -- assistant vocation director for the diocese -- talk priestly vocations as part of National Vocations Awareness Week. Vargas reflects on his call to the priesthood and what seminarian life is like. We also get to know Father Lana, and he discusses the many ways the diocese and our parishes are supporting priestly vocations. Bishop Sweeney shares insights into his role of assisting in the priestly discernment process for pr...
2023-11-0948 minBeyond The Beacon31: Election Day and faithful citizenship with Jim KingJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 31 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. With Election Day fast approaching, they discuss faithful citizenship with Jim King, executive director of the New Jersey Catholic Conference (NJCC). King shares his government work background and interesting path to the NJCC. They discuss the election resources available to Catholics and the importance of voting and being involved civically. NJCC is the non-partisan public policy voice for the Catholic Church in New Jersey. Thanks for listening! Be sure to like this episode, su...
2023-11-0246 minBeyond The Beacon30: 2 lay women discuss being ‘Mary’s Hands’ to those in needJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 30 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. They discuss Mary’s Hands, a social services ministry that operates out of St. Margaret of Scotland Parish in Morristown. Speaking about the ministry is Suzanne Toscano, director of administration, and Teresa Prendergast, director of client services for the ministry. This life-changing ministry began in 2014 under the auspices of Sister Mary Elizabeth Lloyd, M.P.F. – known affectionately as the running nun. It was formalized as Mary’s Hands in 2019, and this week, Mary’s...
2023-10-2643 minBeyond The Beacon29: Talking family life with Eniola HonsbergerJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 29 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. They welcome Eniola Honsberger to discuss family life and our upcoming Respect Life Convocation on Oct. 28. Honsberger is the director of the Office of Family Life for the Diocese of Paterson and ministers out of The Office of Evangelization at St. Paul Inside the Walls in Madison.Thanks for listening! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.org.F...
2023-10-1939 minBeyond The Beacon28: What is synodality? With Father Manning and Msgr. KupkeJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 28 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. They welcome fellow podcasters (Coffee with Kupke), Father Paul Manning, and Monsignor Ray Kupke to discuss the Synod on Synodality. Father Manning is the vicar for evangelization for the Diocese of Paterson and Msgr. Kupke is the diocesan archivist and a historian who teaches at Seton Hall University. He's also the pastor of St. Anthony in Hawthorne. They discuss the historic synod meeting taking place now in Rome and look back at the related process...
2023-10-1239 minBeyond The Beacon27: The impact of giving with Tim PotterJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 27 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. They welcome Tim Potter to the episode. Tim has been the Chief Development Officer for the Diocese of Paterson for 30 years. He is responsible for fundraising with the diocese, specifically with the Diocesan Ministries Appeal and the two past capital campaigns (Prepare the Way Campaign in 2000 and Partners in Faith in 2013). Tim is available to consult with parishes on their parish campaigns. Here in the Diocese of Paterson, we are conducting our Diocesan...
2023-10-0544 minBeyond The Beacon26: Witness for life with Br. Joachim Joseph, C.F.R., and Solanyi RodriguezJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 26 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. They welcome Brother Joachim Joseph and Solanyi Rodriguez to discuss their efforts to promote a culture of respect for the dignity and value of every human life. Rodriguez is a pro-life sidewalk counselor who works in our Respect Life Office. She has counseled numerous moms who have decided against aborting their babies. Brother J.J. is a Franciscan Friar of the Renewal who lives at a friary in Paterson. Brother J.J. and his fellow...
2023-09-2849 minBeyond The Beacon25: Our role in addiction recovery: Keaton Douglas & iTHIRSTJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 25 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. They welcome Keaton Douglas of the iTHIRST initiative to discuss spiritual healing and the Church's role in accompanying those in recovery from addiction. Thanks for listening! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.org.Follow the bishop on Instagram, and follow the Diocese of Paterson on Facebook.SHOW NOTESLearn more about the iTHIRST i...
2023-09-2136 minBeyond The Beacon24: School can be fun. Pastor and principal of Assumption School in MorristownJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 24 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. They welcome the pastor and a principal from Assumption School in Morristown -- one of the Catholic schools of the diocese. Msgr. John E. Hart and Sister Merris Larkin, S.C., joyfully discuss the life of a successful elementary school and how they work together to make learning effective and fun. Thanks for listening! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@p...
2023-09-1433 minBeyond The Beacon23: Father Ed Reading on addiction, recovery, and spiritualityJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 23 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. They welcome Father Ed Reading, a licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor who serves in specialized ministry "healing the healers." Ordained in 1972, he has been serving as a worker priest in professional settings while providing weekend pastoral services to parishes. Father Reading is a distinguished Catholic Charities board member who worked at Straight and Narrow in the 1970s. He has been an addiction professional since 1969, is a member of several national and international organizations, and...
2023-09-0752 minBeyond The Beacon22: Brilla School, the Cathedral, and the 'Block of Mercy' in downtown PatersonJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 22 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. They welcome Msgr. Geno Sylva and Ivannia Vega-McTighe to discuss Brilla Public Charter School and the life-changing work taking place at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in downtown Paterson. Msgr. Sylva is the rector of the Cathedral and vicar for Special Projects of the Diocese of Paterson. He was recently appointed to the Dicastery for Evangelization at the Vatican. Vega-McTighe is the pastoral associate of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.
2023-08-3142 minBeyond The Beacon21: We are pilgrim people. An interview about our upcoming Marian pilgrimage to Washington, D.C.Join Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 21 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. They welcome Father Michael Rodak to discuss the upcoming diocesan pilgrimage to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. Father Rodak is the pastor of St. Jude The Apostle Church in Hardyston and director of pilgrimages for the Diocese of Paterson. They talk about the importance of Catholics journeying together in prayer and reflection. We also hear personal stories about some of the pilgrimages the three have been...
2023-08-2433 minBeyond The Beacon20: On a mission! We hear from one of our parishes about service in AppalachiaJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 20 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. They welcome three parishioners from the faith community of St. Joseph in Mendham, N.J., to discuss their annual mission trip to Appalachia. Mark Tosso is the director of the middle school and high school youth ministry program at St. Joseph’s. Lynne Connor is a trip co-director and adult volunteer. Hannah D’cruz is one of the youths who has participated in the mission trip several times. They are among a large group of volunt...
2023-08-1739 minBeyond The Beacon19: Back from World Youth Day. Now what? With Crystal GuerreroJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 19 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Bishop Sweeney invites Crystal Guerrero to the show. Guerrero is the director of religious education and the office manager at The Catholic Community of St. Brendan & St. George in Clifton. She and Bishop Sweeney were among a group of pilgrims from the Diocese of Paterson who traveled to Lisbon, Portugal, for World Youth Day 2023. Guerrero, one of the leaders on the multi-day pilgrimage, shares what the experience was like for her and the others. Guerrero al...
2023-08-1035 minBeyond The Beacon18: Bishop Sweeney calls in from Lisbon, Portugal during World Youth Day 2023Join Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 18 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Bishop Sweeney calls in from Lisbon, Portugal, where he is participating in World Youth Day 2023 with a group of young people and chaperones, seminarians, and priests, representing the Diocese of Paterson. Upon arriving in Portugal, the pilgrims from the Diocese of Paterson visited Santarém, Portugal, the site of a Eucharistic Miracle from the 13th century. They then went to Fátima, Portugal, known for the Marian apparitions reported in 1917 by three shepherd children. They are...
2023-08-0325 minBeyond The Beacon17: An interview with missionary priest Father Joseph Healey, M.M.Join Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 17 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. They invite Father Joseph Healey, M.M., to the show. Father Joe is a missionary priest with the Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers, the Catholic Foreign Mission Society of America. He served in Africa for the past 55 years and is a journalist, author, and teacher. He currently has a full-time internet ministry and facilitates small Christian communities through Zoom and Skype. He has taught and written extensively about small Christian communities – an important part of his min...
2023-07-2738 minBeyond The Beacon16: Coffee with Kupke podcastJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 16 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. They invite Monsignor Ray Kupke and Father Paul Manning to the show to discuss their new podcast, Coffee with Kupke. Father Manning is the vicar for evangelization for the diocese and executive director of St. Paul Inside the Walls, the evangelization center for the Diocese of Paterson. Msgr. Kupke is our diocesan archivist, a historian who teaches at Seton Hall University, and pastor of St. Anthony in Hawthorne. The two share some fun historical anecdotes a...
2023-07-0645 minBeyond The Beacon15: Remote episode at Quo Vadis discernment retreat at Camp Shiloh; interviews galoreJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish as they go on the road for episode 15 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Their first remote podcast recording is at Camp Shiloh during the 2023 Quo Vadis discernment retreat in Hewitt (West Milford), N.J. Bishop Sweeney and Agnish interview several young men discerning their vocation. Also making appearances are the two newest transitional deacons of the diocese: Sebastián Muñoz Chavarría and Joseph Samuel DeMarzo III. Father Edward Rama, vocations director for the Diocese of Paterson also joins the show.
2023-06-3038 minBeyond The Beacon14: Bishop Sweeney on sitting with Bishop Barron at USCCB assembly, Yogi-isms, religious freedom, moreJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 14 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Bishop Sweeney discusses his experience at the USCCB bishops’ meeting in Orlando, Fla. and sitting next to Bishop Robert Barron. He also reflects on the anniversary of the Dobbs decision, religious freedom, and more. Agnish puts a question to Bishop Sweeney directly from the Vatican's newly released synod working document regarding people who feel hurt and unwelcomed by the Church. Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Thanks for l...
2023-06-2247 minBeyond The Beacon13: An interview with one of our new deacons and his wifeJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 13 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Bishop Sweeney invites Deacon John Robayo and his wife, Rose to the show. Deacon John is one of our 10 new deacons ordained this past Saturday by Bishop Sweeney. John and Rose discuss his journey to becoming a deacon and share some fun stories about their lives. Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Thanks for listening! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.org. Show Not...
2023-06-1540 minBeyond The Beacon12: Mary Baier on the joys and benefits of a Catholic School educationJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 12 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Bishop Sweeney invites Mary Baier to the show to discuss Catholic School education. Baier is the Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Paterson. She has been in the field for 34 years and lives and breathes Catholic School education. She and the bishop discuss graduation season, the joys and benefits of a Catholic School education, and more. Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Thanks for listening! Email que...
2023-06-0836 minBeyond The Beacon11: Chris Brancato on feeding the hungry and the work of Catholic CharitiesJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 11 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Bishop Sweeney invites Chris Brancato to the show to discuss the Catholic Charities Corpus Christi Food Drive, feeding the hungry, and more. Brancato handles fundraising and public relations for Catholic Charities and is celebrating his 20th year with the organization. In the episode, Bishop Sweeney discusses Catholic School graduations and the Los Angeles Dodgers' decision to honor an anti-Catholic group. Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Thanks for listening! Em...
2023-06-0140 minBeyond The Beacon10: Fr. Agustino Torres, C.F.R., on the Eucharist and youth ministryJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 10 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Bishop Sweeney invites Father Agustino Torres, C.F.R., to the show this week to discuss his vocational calling, the Eucharist, and how ministering to the youth has changed. Father Agustino is an internationally renowned public speaker who hosts television shows on EWTN and a podcast, Revive. For the Diocese of Paterson, Father Agustino, is the Campus Ministry Chaplain at William Paterson University in Wayne. He is a preacher with the USCCB’s National Eucharistic Rev...
2023-05-2535 min
How Do You MindLet's Talk About Comedy with Jodie Paterson - Lets Talk About ComedyA trailer for the podcast - Let's talk about comedy with Jodie PatersonThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
2023-05-2201 min